Diabetes Insipidus in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different diabetes insipidus patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Diabetes insipidus is a rare disorder characterized by intense thirst and the excretion of large amounts of urine. Unlike its namesake, diabetes mellitus, which involves issues with blood sugar levels, diabetes insipidus stems from a hormone imbalance that affects water regulation in the body, leading to an imbalance in fluid levels.
This condition can be triggered by problems with the pituitary gland or the kidneys and can significantly impact daily life due to the constant need for water and frequent urination.
In the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), diabetes insipidus is seen through a lens that differs significantly from Western medicine. TCM does not isolate the disease to a hormonal or a singular organ dysfunction but views it as a symptom of an underlying imbalance within the body’s Yin and Yang, particularly relating to the Kidneys' functions.
According to TCM, the Kidneys govern water metabolism, and an imbalance in Kidney Yin and Yang can lead to symptoms similar to those of diabetes insipidus. TCM emphasizes restoring balance and harmony within the body to treat symptoms, focusing on the root cause rather than just addressing the symptoms.
TCM Patterns for Diabetes Insipidus
Each pattern represents a distinct underlying imbalance that can cause diabetes insipidus
Kidney Yang Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Deep (Chen), Slow (Chi)
Pale tongue
Recommended herbal formulas
Liver Yin Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Rapid (Shu), Empty (Xu), Wiry (Xian), Floating (Fu)
Normal or red color on the sides with no coating or rootless coating
Recommended herbal formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Diagnostic signs
Empty (Xu), Floating (Fu)
Normal-coloured without coating or with rootless coating
Recommended herbal formulas
Herbal Formulas for Diabetes Insipidus
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address diabetes insipidus